New data uploaded on the Cohesion Open Data Platform show that half of the European Structural and Investment (ESI) Funds envelope planned to be invested via financial instruments over the 2014-2020 budget period has already been allocated to generate additional investment through financial products such as loans, guarantees or equity. By end 2016, already €10.3 billion from the ESI Funds was committed to such instruments, mostly for SME support, research and innovation and the low-carbon economy, out of a target of €21 billion. The new "financial instrument" data of the Cohesion Open Data Platform will enable viewers to follow the progress made towards the target on an annual basis and by country. Commissioner for Regional policy Corina Crețu said: "Over 76,000 businesses are currently supported by the European Structural and Investment Funds through financial instruments; these innovative tools have proven their ability to deliver for the maximum impact of EU resources on the ground, in line with the objective of President Juncker's Investment Plan." Find the full summary of progress in ESI Funds investments via financial instruments here. (